The basic academy program involves over 800 hours of classroom and hands-on training. Completion of this training allows individuals to take the TCOLE licensing examination to become a Texas Peace Officer.

The basic academy program is available to individuals who meet admission standards and are accepted for attendance. Attendees must be prepared for a demanding program. The process is mentally and physically challenging. There are significant time demands both in and out of the classroom.

Classes run Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Topics include law, firearms, driving, patrol operations, defensive tactics and many others.

The mission of the academy is to provide training and testing that ensures each student graduates with the demonstrated character, knowledge, problem-solving abilities, human relations, communication and physical skills necessary to meet the professional standards required of a peace officer.